Shigellosis

Shigella is passed in the stool and people become infected by having contact with stool from an infected person. This includes:

• Consuming food or drinks prepared by a sick person
• Cleaning up stool or vomit
• Touching a contaminated surface or object
• Having close contact with an ill household member
• Having sexual contact that involves contact with stool

• Sudden stomach pain or cramps
• Diarrhea (may be bloody)
• Vomiting
• Fever

Symptoms usually begin 24-72 hours after exposure and last about 4-7 days. Some people may have no symptoms, but can still spread the infection to others.

Diagnosis

A person having diarrhea for ≥ 24 hours or with bloody stool should see his or her doctor. Your doctor will ask you questions, do a physical exam, and a lab test.

Treatment

Most people recover in 2-3 days without treatment, but some people may require medicine. Since diarrhea can cause dehydration, an ill person should drink plenty of fluids. Some medications may not work for certain strains of Shigella. Your health care provider will determine what is right for you.

In general, shigellosis can be prevented by following these steps:

• Wash hands with soap and water after using the restroom; after assisting
  someone with diarrhea and/or vomiting; after swimming; and before, during,
  and after food preparation.
• Clean food preparation work surfaces, equipment, and utensils with soap and
  water before, during, and after food preparation.
• Wash all produce before eating raw or cooking.
• Persons with diarrhea and/or vomiting should limit direct contact with others
  as much as possible.
• Persons with diarrhea and/or vomiting should stay home from school or
  daycare.
• Persons with diarrhea and/or vomiting should not work with food.

Anyone can become ill, but young children, senior adults, pregnant women, and immune suppressed individuals (such as patients on cancer drugs and with organ transplants) are at high risk for illness.

Shigellosis Exclusion Criteria

• CDC Understanding Shigellosis